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FROM   THE   LIBRARY   OF 
REV.    LOUIS    FITZGERALD    BENSON.   D.  D. 


BEQUEATHED    BY   HIM   TO 

THE   LIBRARY   OF 

PRINCETON   THEOLOGICAL  SEMINARY 


y'-j- 


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% 


Digitized  by  tine  Internet  Arciiive 

in  2012  witii  funding  from 

Princeton  Tlieological  Seminary  Library 


http://archive.org/details/divinemoOOwatt 


GIVmE  mU  MOBAL  SONGS 

FOE   CHILDEEX. 


MAR  14 1935 


P  R  E  P  A  C  E. 


to  all  that  akk  concerxed  ix  the  educatiox  of 
childeex. 

]\[y  Feiexds, 

It  is  an  awful  and  important  cliarge  tliat  is  committed 
to  yon.  The  wisdom  and  welfare  of  the  succeeding  genera- 
tion are  intrusted  with  you  before  hand,  aud  depend  much 
on  your  conduct.  The  seeds  of  misery  or  happiness  in  this 
world,  and  that  to  come,  are  oftentimes  sown  very  early ; 
and,  therefore,  Avhatever  may  conduce  to  give  the  minds 
of  children  a  relish  for  virtue  and  religion  oudit,  in  the 
first  place,  to  be  proposed  to  you. 

Verse  was  at  first  designed  for  the  service  of  God,  though 
it  hath  been  wretchedly  abused  since.  The  ancients  among 
the  Jews  and  the  Heathens  tauglit  their  children  and 
disciples   the   precepts    of  morality  and   worship   in   verse. 

The  children  uf  Isvatd  were  commanded  to  h^arn  tlie  words 

7 


of  tlie  song  of  Moses,  ])t'ut.  xxxi.  19,  30;  and  wo  aic 
directed  in  the  Xew  Testament,  not  only  to  sing  '-'with 
grace  in  the  heart,"  Init  to  "teach  and  admonish  one  another 
by  hymns  and  songs,"  Eplies.  v.  ID.  And  there  are  these 
four  advantages  in  it : 

1.  There  is  a  great  delight  in  the  very  learning  of  truths 
and  duties  this  way.  There  is  something  so  amusing  and 
entertaining  in  rhymes  and  metre  that  will  incline  children 
to  make  this  part  of  their  business  a  diversion.  And  you 
may  turn  their  very  duty  into  a  reward,  by  giving  them 
the  privilege  of  learning  one  of  these  songs  every  week, 
if  they  f'^lfil  the  business  of  the  week  well,  and  promising 
them  the  »ook  itself,  when  they  have  learned  ten  or  twenty 
songs  out  of  it. 

2.  What  is  learned  in  verse  is  longer  retained  in  memory, 
and  sooner  recollected.  The  like  sounds  and  the  like 
number  of  syllables  exceedingly  assist  the  remembrance. 
And  it  may  often  happen  that  the  end  of  a  song,  running 
in  the  niijid,  may  be  an  elfectual  means  to  keep  off  some 
temptations,  or  to  incline  to  some  duty,  when  a  Avord  of 
scripture  is  not  upon  their  thoughts. 

?).  Tin's  will  be  a  constant  furniture  for  tlu^  minds  of 
cliihhcn,    that    they    njay    have    something    to    think    upon 


PREFACE. 


wlieu  alone,  and  sing  over  to  themselves.  This  may  some- 
times give  tlieir  thoughts  a  divine  turn,  and  raise  a  young 
meditation.  Thus  they  will  not  be  forced  to  seek  relief 
for  an  emptiness  of  mind  out  of  the  loose  and  dangerous 
sonnets  of  the  age. 

4.  These  Divine  Songs  may  be  a  pleasant  and  proper 
matter  for  their  daily  or  weekly  worship,  to  sing  one  in 
the  family  at  such  time  as  the  parents  or  governors  shall 
appoint ;  and  therefore  I  have  confined  the  verse  to  the  most 
usual  psalm  tunes. 

The  greatest  part  of  this  little  book  was  composed  several 
years  ago,  at  the  request  of  a  friend  who  has  been  long 
engaged  in  the  work  of  catechising  a  very  great  number  of 
children  of  all  kinds,  and  with  abundant  skill  and  success. 
So  that  you  will  find  here  nothing  that  savours  of  a  party  : 
the  children  of  high  and  low  degree,  of  the  Church  of 
England  or  Dissenters,  baptized  in  infancy  or  not,  may  all 
join  together  in  these  songs.  And  as  I  have  endeavoured 
to  sink  the  language  to  the  level  of  a  child's  understanding, 
and  yet  to  keep  it,  if  possible,  above  contempt,  so  I  have 
designed  to  profit  all,  if  possible,  and  offend  none.  I  hope 
the  more  general  the  sense  is,  these  composures  may  be 
of  the  more  universal  use  and  service. 

9  B 


FEE  FACE. 


1  have  added  at  the  end  some  atteiii])ts  of  sonnets  on 
moral  subjects,  for  cliildren,  witli  an  air  of  pleasantry,  to 
provoke  some  fitter  pen  to  write  a  little  book  of  them. 

May  the  Almighty  God  make  you  faithful  in  this  im- 
portant work  of  education :  may  he  succeed  your  cares 
with  his  abundant  grace ;  that  the  rising  generation  of 
Great  Britain  may  be  a  glory  among  the  nations,  a  pattern 
to  the  Christian  world,  and  a  blessing  to  the  earth  1 

I.  W. 


PEEPACE 

TO   THE   PEESENT   EDITION. 


AVhatever  opinion  may  be  entertained  by  connoisseurs 
as  to  the  value  of  Dr.  Watts's  Hymns  as  ''Poems/'  none 
can  doubt  the  earnest  piety  which  dictated  them,  nor  the 
unmistakable  popularity  they  have  ever  enjoyed,  both  at 
home  and  abroad,  and  which  fully  entitles  them  to  be 
considered  as  genuine  "  Household  AYoeds." 

Numerous  as  are  the  editions  already  published,  more 
or  less  illustrated,  none  have  as  yet  approached  the 
standard  of  completeness  or  excellence  which  such  popu- 
larity deserves. 

11 


P  EFFACE. 


Tlie  projectors  of  this  effort  fully  believe  that  this  want 
will  he  anijily  supplied  by  the  production  of  the  present 
edition.  The  names  and  number  of  the  artists  employed, 
together  with  the  general  care  and  finish  l)estowed  through- 
out, they  trust  will  be  sufficient  guarantee  that  their  labour 
has  not  been  in  vain. 

It  may  be  well  to  add  that  the  whole  of  the  Illustrations 
have  been  arranged  and  engraved  under  the  entire  direction 
of  Mr.  James  D.  Cooper. 

London,  1866. 


CONTENTS. 


DIVINE    SONGS. 

raqe 

Almighty  God,  tliy  piercing  eye 43 

And  now  another  day  is  gone 79 

Angels,  that  high  in  glory  dwell 63 

Be  you  to  others  kind  and  true 87 

Bless'd  be  the  wisdom  and  the  power 27 

Give  to  the  Father  praise 91 

Great  God,  to  thee  my  voice  I  raise 33 

Great  God,  with  wonder  and  with  praise 37 

Happy  the  child  whose  youngest  years 49 

Hosanna  to  king  David's  Son , 87 

Hosanna  to  the  Prince  of  Grace 88 

Hosanna  to  the  Son 89 

How  doth  the  little  busy  bee 65 

How  glorious  is  our  heavenly  King 21 

I  sing  th'  almighty  power  of  God 23 

Let  children  that  would  fear  the  Lord 73 

Let  dogs  delight  to  Vark  and  bite 57 

Lord,  how  delightful  'tis  to  see 83 

Lord,  T  ascribe  it  to  thy  grace 35 

Love  God  Avith  all  your  soul  and  strengili 80 

My  God,  who  makes  the  sun  to  know 77 

Now  let  the  Father,  and  the  Son 90 

0  'tis  a  lovely  thing  for  youth 55 

13 


CONTENTS. 


Page 

Our  tongues  were  made  to  bless  the  Lord 61 

The  praises  of  my  tongue 39 

Tliere  is  a  God  that  reigns  above 45 

There  is  beyond  the  sky 47 

This  is  the  day  when  Christ  arose 8] 

Tliou  shalt  liave  no  more  Gods  but  me     . 85 

To  God  the  Father,  God  the  Son 90 

AVhat  blest  examples  do  I  find 53 

Whatever  brawls  disturb  the  street 59 

"Whene'er  I  take  my  walks  abroad 31 

Why  should  I  join  with  those  in  play 67 

Why  should  I  love  my  sports  so  well 75 

Why  should  I  say,  *"Tis  yet  too  soon" 51 

Why  should  our  garments,  made  to  hide 69 

With  all  thy  soul  love  God  above 86 


MOEAL  SOXGS. 

Abroad  in  tlic  meadows,  to  sec  the  young  lambs 97 

How  fair  is  the  Rose  !  what  a  beautiful  Hower 99 

}fow  fine  has  the  day  been  !  how  bright  was  tlu>  sun 109 

Hush,  n)y  dear  !  lie  still,  and  slumber Ill 

These  Emmets,  how  little  they  are  in  our  eyes 103 

Though  I'm  now  in  younger  days 105 

'Tis  the  voice  of  the  Sluggard  :  I  henrd  him  coniplaiii 95 

Why  should  I  deprive  my  neighbour 101 


Subject.  Artist.  Fane 

Portrait  of  Dr.  AVatts T.  D.  Scott      ...  4 

Title  page T.  Kennedy     ...  5 

Medallion  Border Ditto     ....  21 

Do Ditto     ....  22 

The  San  Sisto  Cherubs   (after  Eaphael) A.  J,  Waudby  ...  22 

Mountain  Sunrise.     Coast  Scene E.  M.  Wimpfris    .     .  23 

The  Birth  of  the  Brooklet T.  Kennedy     ...  24 

African    Lagoon   Scene.      Evening.       "Creatures    as 

numerous  as  they  ha" Ditto      ....  25 

Moonlight E.  M.  Wimteris    .     .  26 

Apple  Border T.  Kennedy     ...  27 

The  Expulsion  (after  Eaphael) A.  J.  "Waudby  ...  27 

Passion  Flower  Border T.  Kennedy     ...  28 

The  Crucifixion  (after  Durer) W.  J.  Allen     ...  28 

Lily  Border T.  Kennedy     ...  29 

The  Ascension  (after  Steinle) W.  J.  Allen     ...  29 

15 


LIST  OF  ILLUSTRATIONS. 


Suhjfct.  Artist.  Page 

Angel  of  Judgment A.  J.  Waudby  .     .     .  30 

Chanty K.  Barnes  ....  31 

Houseless  Poor Ditto      ....  32 

*'  Great  God,  to  thee  my  voice  I  raise " Ditto      ....  33 

The  Car  of  Juggernaut \V.  Small    ....  34 

Family  Reading HuGU  Camehon     .     .  35 

Negro  worshipping  Idol W.  Small    ....  36 

Starlight  and  Moon  rise T.  Kennedy      ...  37 

"Meditate  by  Night" W.  Small    ....  38 

Early  Tuition Hugh  Cameron    .     .  39 

Holly  Border T.Kennedy     ...  40 

Medallion,     The  Nativity  (after  Overbeck)  .     .     .     .  W.  J.  Allen     ...  40 

Convolvulus  Border T.  Kennedy     ...  41 

Medallion.     Descent  of  the  Holy  Ghost  (after  Callot).  W.  J.  Allen     ...  41 

The  Holy  Dove A.  J.  Waudby  ...  42 

"  Almighty  God,  thy  piercing  eye" R.  Barnes   ....  43 

"  Lord,  at  thy  feet  ashamed  I  lie " Ditto      ....  44 

Christ  stilling  the  Storm R.  P.  Leitcii    ...  45 

The  Fallen  Tree T.  Kennedy     ...  46 

**  Beyond "  (after  Kaulbach) ;     .     .     .  T.D.Scott.     ...  47 

Reaper R.  Barnes   ....  48 

Home  Influence Ditto      ....  49 

Early  Death Ditto     ....  50 

'•  A  Flower  may  fade  before 'tis  noon "      .     »     .     .     .  T.Kennedy     ...  51 

Annie's  Tomb Ditto      ....  52 

Our  Saviour  with  the  Doctors W.  Small    ....  53 

The  Infant  Samuel  (after  Sir  J.  Reynolds)     .     .     .     .  T.  D.  Scott      ...  54 

Ananias  (after  Raphael) W.  J.  Allen     ...  55 

"  Keep  Thou  the  door  of  my  lips" W.  Small    ....  56 

Lions  Fighting H.  Weir 57 

The  Holy  Family  (after  Murillo) W.  J.  Allen     ...  58 

Brotherly  Love W.  Small    ....  59 

Cain  and  Abel Ditto      ....  60 

Reproof K.  Barnes   ....  61 

Elisha  mocked W.  Small    ....  62 

16 


LIST  OF  ILLUSTRATIONS. 


Snbject.  Artist.  Page 

*'Angels,thathighiiigloiTd\veir'(afterSirJ.  Roynol(ls)  T.  D.  Scott.     ...  63 

Shun  the  profoiie AV.  Small    ....  64 

Bees,  Foxglove,  and  Bramble  Blossom T.  Kexnkdy      ...  6') 

Bee  Hives Ditto      ....  66 

The  Truants AV.  Small    ....  67 

Seeking  Wisdom Ditto      ....  68 

The  Tain  Cliild R.  Baknes   ....  69 

Tulip  and  Azaleas T.  Kennedy     ...  70 

Nastui'tium,  Fuschia,  and  Butterfly Ditto     ....  71 

Flower  Finial Ditto     ....  72 

Obedience  to  Parents W.  Small     ....  73 

The  Curse  of  Disobedience Ditto      ....  74 

The  Young  Angler Ditto      ....  75 

Before  Rest R.  Barnes   ....  76 

Early  Sunrise E.  M.  "Wimperis    .     .  77 

Jtlower  and  Lark W.  Small    ....  78 

"  And  now  another  day  is  gone " Ditto     ....  79 

"  Let  Angels  guard  my  head " Ditto      ....  80 

Lord's  Day.     Morning R.  Barnes  ....  81 

Toys  put  aside Ditto      ....  82 

Lord's  Day.     Evening Ditto     ....  83 

Infant  Slumber "\V.  Small     ....  84 

Moses  and  the  Tables  of  the  Law Ditto     ....  So 

Floral  Initials T.  Kennedy     ...  86 

Floral  Initials Ditto      ....  87 

Christ  riding  into  Jenisalam  (after  Overbeck)    .     .     .  AV.  J.  Allen     ...  88 

On  Calvary W.  Small     ....  89 

Initial  Letters T.  Kennedy     .     .      90,  91 

The  Holy  Dove.     Emblems  of  the  Trinity    ....  A.  J.  AVaudby  .     .     .  91 

Cherubin  and  Seraphin Ditto      ....  92 

The  Sluggard W.  Small    ....  95 

The  Sluggard's  Garden Ditto      ....  96 

Lambs  in  the  Meadows J.  Lee 97 

Boys  throwing  pebbles -  "\V.  S.mall     ....  98 

The  Full-blown  Rose T.  Kennedy      ...  99 

17  c 


LIST  i>F  ILU'STIiATKtXS. 


Sl(hj€ct 

In  Memoriani 
The  Dishonest  StTvniit 
The  licsult      .... 
The  Emmets  on  tht-  Path 

Foresight 

Younger  Days     .     .     . 
Pity  tlie  Maimed      .     . 
Relief  in  Distress     . 
Filial  Respect 
Sunset  .     . 
Sunrise .     . 
Cradle  Lullahy 
Vine  Border  . 
Carnation  Border 
AVhilst  Shepherds  watcho( 
The  Nativity  . 
Fini.s.     Maternal  .Toy 


ArtL^t. 

Page 

T.  Kennedy     ...     100 

W.  Small    . 

101 

Ditto     . 

102 

J.  Lee     .     . 

103 

T.  Kennedy 

104 

^V.  Small    . 

105 

Ditto     . 

106 

Ditto     . 

107 

Ditto     . 

108 

E.  M.   WlMPERI 

s 

109 

Ditto     . 

110 

R.  Baiine.s   . 

111 

T.  Kennedy 

112 

Ditto     . 

113 

W.  Small    . 

.     114 

Ditto     . 

115 

R.  Barnes  . 

.     IIG 

GiVJHE    SOHGS. 


21 


TKAISE    FOR    CREA.TIOX    AND    PROVIDENrK. 

I  SING  til'  almighty  power  of   God, 
That  made  the  mountains  rise, 

That  spread  the  flowing  seas  abroad, 
And  built  the  lofty  skies. 

I  sing  the  wisdom  that  ordain'd 

The  sun  to  rule  the  day  : 
Tlie  moon  shines  full  at  his  command, 

And  all  the  stars  obey. 
23 


DIVINE  SONGS. 


\>    \ 


X''-^^L. 


I  sing  the  goodness  of  the  Lord, 
That  fill'd  tlie  earth  witli  food : 

He  form'd  the  creatures  with  his  word, 
And  then  pronounced  them  good. 

Lord,  how  tliy  wonders  are  display'd, 

Where'er  I  turn  mine  eye, 
If  I  survey  the  ground  I  tread, 

Or  gaze  upon  the  sky  ! 

There's  not  a  plant  or  flower  below. 
But  makes  thy  glories  known 

And  clouds  arise  and  tempests  blow, 
By  order  from  tliy  throne. 


CREATION   AND  PROVIDENCE. 


Creatures — as  numerous  as  they  be — 

Ave  subject  to  tliy  cave  : 
Tlieve's  not  a  place  wheve  we  can  flee. 

But  God  is  present  tbeve. 

In  heaven  he  shines  witli  beams  of  love, 
With  wrath  in  hell  beneath  : 

'Tis  on  his  eavth  I  stand  ov  move, 
And  'tis  liis  air  I  bvt^athe. 

His  hand  is  my  perpetual  guard, 

He  keeps  me  with  his  eye : 
Why  should  I  then  forget  the  Lord, 


\4l 


^\ 


PllAISE   TO   GOD   FOll   OUK   REDEMPTION. 

Blest  be  tlie  wisdom  and  the  power, 

Tlie  justice  and  the  grace, 
Tliat  join'd  in  counsel  to  restore 

And  save  our  ruin'd  race ! 

Our  father  ate  forbidden  fruit. 

And  from  his  glory  fell ; 
And  we,  his  children,  thus  were  brought 

To  death,  and  near  to  hell. 


inilSE    SitNGti. 


FOR  OUR  REDE MFT ION. 


Beliold  liiiii  rising  fnnu  the  giave  ; 
V    7^   /y  Beliold  liiiii  raised  on  high: 

■  He  pleads  his  merits  there,  to  save 

TransoTcssors  dooni'd  to  die. 


There,  on  a  glorious  throne,  he  reigns  ; 

And  by  his  power  divine 
Redeems  us  Ironi  the  shivifeh  chains 


DIVINE  SONGS. 


Thence  shall  the  Lord  to  judgment  come  ; 

And,  with  a  sovereign  voice, 
Shall  call  and  break  up  every  tomb, 

AVliile  waking  saints  rejoice. 

0  may  I  then  with  joy  appear 

Before  the  Judge's  face ; 
And,  with  the  blest  assembly  there. 

Sing  his  redeeming  grace. 


ji^S^rf 


fm^  !f , 


PRAISE   FOR   MERCIES. 

Whene'er  I  take  my  walks  abroad, 

How  many  poor  I  see ! 
What  shall  I.  render  to  my  God 

For  all  his  gifts  to  me? 


Not  more  than  others  I  deser^'e, 
Yet  God  hath   given  me  more : 

For  I  have  food,  while  others  starve, 
Or  beo"  from  door  to  door. 


DTVTXE  S(fXaS. 


How  many  cliihlren  in  tlic  street 

Half  nak(Ml  I  beliold  : 
Wliile  I  am  clothed  from  licad  to  feet, 

And  cover'd  from  tlie  cold. 

AVliile  some  poor  wretches  scarce  can  tell 
AVhere  they  may  lay  their  head, 

1  liave  a  home  wherein  to  dwell, 
And  ivst  upon  my  bed. 

AVhile  others  early  learn  to  swear, 
And  curse,  and  lie,  and  steal, 

Lord,  I  am  taught  thy  name  to  fear, 
And  do  thy  holy  will. 

Are  these  thy  favours,  day  by  day. 

To  me  above  the  rest? 
Then  let  me  love  thee  more  than  they. 

And  try  to  S(^rve  thee  best. 


PKAISE    FOJi    BlliTH    AND    EDUCATION    IN   A 
CHRISTIAN    LAND. 

Gkeat  God,  to  thee  my  voice  I  raise, 
To  tliee  my  youngest  hours  beloug : 

T  would  begin  my  life  with  praise, 
Till  growing  years  improve  the  song. 

'Tis  to  thy  sovereign  grace  I  owe 
Tluit  I  was  born  on  Christian  ground ; 

Where  streams  of  lieavenly  mercy  flow, 
And  words  of  sweet  salvation  sound. 


DIVINE  SONG>i. 


I  would  not  change  my  native  land 
Per  rich  Peru,  with  all  her  gold : 

A  nobler  prize  lies  in  my  hand 
Than  east  or  western  Indies  hold. 

Ifow  do  I  pity  those  that  dwell 

Where  ignorance  and  darkness  reign ! 

They  know  no  heaven — they  fear  no  hell — 
That  endless  joy — that  endless  pain. 

Thy  glorious  promises,  0  Lord, 
Kindle  my  hopes  and  my  desire : 

While  all  the  preachers  of  thy  word 
Warn  me  t'  escape  eternal  fire. 

Tliy  praise  shall  still  employ  my  breath, 
Since  thou  hast  mark'd  my  way  to  heaven 

Nor  will  I  run  the  road  to  death. 

And  waste  the  blessings  thou  hast  given. 


X  >*'^' 
•*■■.«?  A 


^^^^^ 


PRAISE    FOE    THE    GOSPEL. 

Lord,  I  ascribe  it  to  tliy  grace, 
And  not  to  cliance  as  others  do, 

That  I  was  born  of  Christian  race, 
And  not  a  heathen,  or  a  Jew. 

What  would  the  ancient  Jewish  kings 
And  Jewish  prophets  once  have  given. 
Could   thev   have   heard   those   glorious 
djn:  thmgs 

WTiich    Christ   reveal'd    and    brought 
from  heaven ! 


35 


I'lViyE   S(>M!S. 


Jluw  glad  the  llcatlien.s  wc.iikl  liave  been, 
That  worsliipp'd  idols,  wood,  and  stone, 

li'  they  the  book  of   God  had  seen, 
Or  Jesus  and  his  gospel  known  ! 

Then,  if   the  (;osi)el   I  refuse, 

How  shall   I  e'er  lilt   uj)  mine  eyes  ^ 

For  all  the  (Jentiles  and  tlie  Jews 
Against  nie  will  in  jndgment  rise. 


h 


The  stars  that  in  their  courses  roll 
Have  much  instruction  given ; 

But  thy  good  Word  informs  my  soul 
How  I  may  climb  to  heaven. 

The  fields  provide  me  food,  and  show 
The  goodness  of  the  Lord ; 

But  fruits  of  life  and  glory  grow 
In  thy  most  holy  Word. 

37 


DIVINE  SONGS. 


Here  are  my  choicest  treasures  hid ; 

Here  my  best  comfort  lies  ; 
Here  my  desires  are  satisfied; 

And  lience  my  joys  arise. 

Lord,  make  me  understand  thy  law  : 
Show  what  my  faults  have  been  ; 

And  from  thy  Gospel  let  me  draw 
Pardon  for  all  my  sin. 

Here  would  I  learn  how  Christ  has  died 
To  save  my  soul  from  hell : 

Not  all  the  books  on  earth  beside 
Such  heavenly  wonders  tell. 

Then  let  me  love  my  Bible  more ; 

And  take  a  fresh  delight 
By  day  to  read  these  wonders  o'er, 

And  meditate  bv  ni^rht. 


PRAISE  TO  GOD  FOR  LEARNING  TO 
READ. 

The  praises  of  my  tongue 

I  offer  to  the  Lord, 
That  I  was  taught  and  learnt  so  young 

To  read  his  holy  Word. 
39 


IUVTNE  SONGS. 


That  I  am  brought  to   know 
The  danger  I  was  in  ; 

By  nature,  and  by  practice  too, 
A  wretched  slave  to  sin. 

That  I  am  led  to  see 

1  can  do  nothing  we 
And  whitl\(M'  shall  a  sinner  flee, 

To  save  himself   iVom  hell? 


•io 


LEARNING  TO  READ. 


Here  I  can  read  and  learn 
How  Christ,  the  Son  of  God, 

Did  undertake  our  great  concern ; 
Our  ransom  cost  his  blood. 

And  now  he  reigns  above, 
He  sends  his  Spirit  down, 

To  show  the  wonders  of  his  love, 
And  make  his  Gospel  known. 

O  may  that  Spirit  teach, 

And  make  my  iieart  receive 
Those  truths  which  all  thy  ser- 
vants preach, 
And  all  thy  saints  believe. 


.s 


^^ 


DIVINE  SONG.^. 


Then  shall  I  pmise  the  Lurd 
111  a  more  cheerful  strain, 

That  I  ^vas  taught  to  read  his  AVord, 
And  have  not  learnt  in  vain. 


ftiC  IK. 


ALL-SEEING    GOD. 

Almighty  God,  thy  x^iercing  eye 

Strikes  through  the  shades  of  nighty 

And  our  most  secret  actions  lie 
All  open  to  tlr 

There's  not  a  sin  that  we  commit, 

Nor  wicked  word  we  say, 
But  ill  thy  dreadful  book  'tis  writ 

Against  the  judgment-day. 

And  must  the  crimes  that  I  have  done 
Be  read  and  publish'd  there ; 

Be  all  exposed'  before  the  sun, 
While  men  and  aiiGfels  hear? 


DIVINE  SOXGS. 


Lord,  at  thy  feet  asliamed  I  lie ; 

Upward  I  dare  not  look : 
Pardon  my  sins  before  I  die, 

And  blot  them  from  thy  book. 

Remember  all  the  dying  pains 

That  my  Redeemer  felt ; 
And  let  his  blood  wash  out  my  stains, 

And  answer  for  my  guilt. 

0  may  I  now  for  ever  fear 
T'  indulge  a  sinful  thought, 

Since  the  great  God  can  see  and  hear, 
And  writes  down  ev'ry  fault ! 


SOLEMN  THOUGHTS  ON  GOD  AND  DEATH. 

Theke  is  a  God  that  reigns  above, 
Lord  of  the  heavens,  and  earth,  and  seas 

I  fear  his  wrath,  I  ask  his  love, 

And  witli  my  lips  I  sing  his  praise. 

There  is  a  lav/  which  he  has  writ. 
To  teach  us  all  what  w^e  must  do : 

My  soul,  to  his  commands  submit, 
For  they  are  holy,  just,  and  true. 


DIVINE  SONGS. 


There  is  a  Gospel  of  rich  grace, 

Whence  sinners  all  their  comforts  draw  : 

Lord,  I  repent,  and  seek  thy  face, 
For  I  have  often  broke  tliy  law. 

Tliere  is  an  hour  when  I  must  die, 

Nor  do  I  know  how  soon  'twill  come  : 

A  thousand  children,  young  as  1, 

Are  call'd  by  death  to  hear  tlieir  doom. 

Let  me  improve  the  hours  I  have. 
Before  the  day  of  grace  is  fled : 

There's  no  repentance  in  the  grave, 
No  pardon  ofter'd  to  the  dead. 

Just  as  a  tree  cut  down,  that  fell 
To  north  or  southward,  there  it  lies. 

So  man  departs  to  heaven  or  liell, 
Fix'd  in  the  state  wherein  he  dies. 


hiriyE  noa7;n. 


There  is  a  dreadful  hell, 

And  everlasting  pains  : 
There  sinners  must  with  devils  dwi'll 

Tn  darkness,  fire,  and  chains. 

Can  such  a  wretch  as  I 

Escape  this  cursed  end? 
And  may  I  hope,  whcme'er  1  die, 

I  shall  to  heaven  ascend  ? 

Then  will  I  read  and  pray. 
While  I  have  life  and  breath, 

Lest  I  should  be  cut  off  to-day, 
And  sent  t'  eternal  death. 


THE    ADVANTAGES    OF    EAKLY   KELIGIOX. 

Happy  the  child  whose  youngest  years 

Eeceive  instructions  well ; 
Who  hates  the  sinner's  path,  and  fears 

The  road  that  leads  to  hell. 

When  we  devote  our  youth  to  God, 

'Tis  pleasing  in  his  eyes  ; 
A  flower,  when  offer'd  in  the  hue 

Is  no  vain  sacrifice. 


49 


T>:VTNE  SO^Gl 


'Tis  easier  work  if  we  begin 

To  fear  the  Lord  betimes ; 
AVhile  sinners,  that  grow  old  in  sin, 

Are  harden'd  in  thoir  crimes. 

'Twill  save  us  from  a  thousand  snares 

To  mind  religion  young : 
Grace  will  preserve  our  following  years, 

And  make  our  virtue  strong. 

To  thee,  Almighty  Clod,  to  thee 

Our  childhood  we  resign  : 
'Twill  ])lease  us  to  look  back  and  see 

Tliat  our  whole  lives  were  thine. 

Let  the  sweet  work  of   prayer  and  praise 
Employ  my  youngest  breath  ! 

Thus  I'm  prepared  for  longer  days, 
Or  fit  for  early  (l(\ath. 


THE   DANGER   OF   DELAY. 

Why  should  I  say,  "'Tis  yet  too  soon 
"To  seek  for  heaven  or  thmk  of  death?" 

A  flower  may  fade  before  'tis  noon, 
And  I  this  day  may  lose  my  breath. 

If  this  rebellious  heart  of  mine 

Despise  the  gracious  calls  of  Heaven, 

I  may  be  harden'd  in  my  sin, 
And  never  have  repentance  given. 

^^^lat  if  tlie  Lord  grow  ^vroth,  and  swear, 
While  I  refuse  to  read  and  pray, 

That  he'll  refuse  to  lend  an  ear 
To  all  my  groans  another  day ! 


51 


DIVINE    SONGS. 


What  if  his  dreadful  anger  buru, 
While  I  refuse  his  ofifer'd  grace, 

And  all  his  love  to  anger  turn, 

And  strike  me  dead  upon  tlie  place ! 

Tis  dangerous  to  provoke  a  God ! 

His  power  and  vengeance  none  can  tell 
One  stroke  of  his  almighty  rod 

Shall  send  young  sinners  quick  to  hell. 

Then  'twill  for  ever  be  in  vain 
To  cry  for  pardon  or  for  grace; 

To  wish  I  had  my  time  again, 
Or  hope  to  see  my  Maker's  face. 


EXAMPLES    OF   EAKLY   PIETY. 

What  blest  examples  do  I  find 
AVrit  in  the  Word  of  Truth, 

Of  children  that  began  to  mind 
Religion  in  their  youth  ! 

Jesus,  who  reigns  above  the  sky 
And  keeps  the  world  in  awe, 

Was  once  a  child  as  young  as  I 
And  kept  his  Father's  law. 


53 


DIVINE  ySONGS. 


At  twelve  years  old  lie  talk'd  ^vitll  men, 
(The  Jews  all  Avonderiug  stand;) 

Yet  lie  obey'd  his  Mother  then, 
And  came  at  her  command. 

Children  a  sweet  hosanna  sung, 
And  blest  their  Saviour's  name; 

They  gave  him  honour  with  their  tongue, 
AVhile  scribes  and  priests  blaspheme. 

ISamuel  the  child  was  ^vean'd  and  brought 

To  wait  upon  the  Lord  : 
Young  Timothy  betimes  was  taught 

To  know  his  holy  AVord. 

Then  why  should  I  so  long  delay 

AVhat  others  learnt  so  soon? 
1  would  not  pass  another  day 

Without  this  work  begun. 


0  'tis  a  lovely  thing  for  youtli 
To  ^valk  betimes  in  ^visdom^s  way 

To  fear  a  lie,  to  speak  the  truth, 
That  we  may  trust  to  all  they  say 

But  liars  yve  can  never  trust, 

Though  they  should  speak  the  thing  that's  true  ; 
And  ]ie  that  does  one  fault  at  first. 

And  lies  to  hide  it,  makes  it  two. 

Have  Ave  not  known,  nor  heard,  nor  read 
How  God  abhors  deceit  and  wrong? 

How  Ananias  was  struck  dead, 

Caught  w4th  a  lie  upon  his  tongue? 

55 


DIVINE  SONGS. 


So  did  his  wife  Sappliira  die, 

When  she  came  in,  and  grew  so  bold 

As  to  confirm  tliat  wicked  lie, 

Which  just  before  her  husband  told. 

The  Lord  delights  in  them  that  speak 
The  words  of  truth ;  but  every  liar 

!Must  have  his  portion  in  the  lake 

That  burns  with  brimstone  and  with  fire. 

Then  let  me  always  watch  my  lips, 
Lest  I  be  struck  to  death  and  hell, 

Since  God  a  book  of  reckoning  keeps 
For  every  lie  that  children  tell. 


AGAINST   QUARRELLING   AND   FIGHTING. 

Let  dogs  delight  to  bark  and  bite, 
For  God  hath  made  them  so : 

Let  bears  and  lions  growl  and  fight, 
For  'tis  their  nature,  too.  , 

57  TT 


inVTNE  SONOS. 


]*ut,  cliilJreii,  you  sliould  never  let 

Such  angry  passions  rise : 
Your  little  hands  were  never  made 

To  tear  each  other's  eyes. 

Jxt  love  through  all  your  actions  lun, 
And  all  your  words  he  mild : 

Liv^e  like  the  blessed  Virgin's  Son, 
That  sweet  and  lovely  child. 

His  soul  was  gentle  as  a  lamb  ; 

And  as  his  stature  grew, 
He  grew  in  favour  both  with  man, 

And  God  his  Father,  too. 

Now,  Lord  of  all,  he  reigns  above ; 

And  from  his  heavenly  throne 
He  sees  what  children  dwell  in  love, 
And  marks  them  for  his  own. 


'.-i.  ;l 


LOVE  BETWEEN  BROTHEKS   AND   SISTEKS. 

Whatever  brawls  disturb  the  street, 
There  should  be  peace  at  home  ; 

Where  sisters  dwell  and  brothers  meet 
Quarrels  should  never  come. 

Birds  in  their  little  nests  agree 
And  'tis  a  shameful  si^ht, 

When  children  of  one  family 
Fall  out,  and  chide,  and  fioJit. 


^'OiA 


DIVINE  S0NG;S. 


Hard  names  at  first,  and  threatening  words, 

That  are  but  noisy  breath, 
^lay  grow  to  ehibs  and  naked  swords, 

To  murder  and  to  death. 

The  devil  tempts  one  mother's  son 

To  rage  against  anotlier : 
So  wicked  Cain  was  hurried  on, 

TiU  he  had  kill'd  his  brother. 

The  wise  will  let  their  anger  cool. 

At  least  before  'tis  night ; 
But  in  the  bosom  of  a  fool 

It  burns  till  morning  light. 

Pardon,  0  Lord,  our  childish  rage, 

Our  little  brawls  remove. 
That,  as  we  grow  to  riper  age, 

Our  hearts  may  all  be  love ! 


AGAIXST    SCOFFING   AND    CALLING    NAMES. 

OuE  tongues  were  made  to  bless  the  Lord, 

And  not  speak  ill  of  men  : 
When  others  give  a  railing  word, 

We  must  not  rail  again. 

Gioss  words  and  angry  names  require 

To  be  chastised  at  school; 
And  he's  in  danger  of  hell- fire 

That  calls  his  brother  fool. 


61 


in  VINE   ,SOiV(VN. 


lUit  lips  that  dare  be  so  pioi'aiie 
To  mock,  and  jeer,  and  scoff 

At  holy  things,  or  holy  men, 
The  Lord  shall  cut  them  off. 

When  eliildren,  in  their  wanton  play, 

Served  old  Elislia  so, 
And  bade  the  prophet  go  his  wa}', 

'  Go  up,  thou  bald  head,  go ! '  ^ 

CJod  quickly  stopp'd  their  wicked  breath 

And  sent  two  raging  bears, 
That  tore  them  limb  from  limb  to  death, 

With  blood,  and  groans,  and  tears. 

CJreat  God !  how  terrible  art  thou 

To  sinners  e'er  so  young  : 
Grant  me  thy  grace,  and  teach  me  how 

To  tame  and  rule  my  tongue. 


DIVINE  SONGS. 


And  yet  liow  -wicked  cliildrcn  dare 
Abuse  thy  dreadful,  glorious  Name ! 

And  when  they're  angry,  how  they  swear, 
And  curse  their  fellows,  and  blaspheme  ! 

How  will  they  stand  before  thy  face, 
Who  treated  thee  with  such  disdain, 

While  thou  shalt  doom  them  to  the  place 
Of  everlasting  fire  and  pain  ? 

Then  never  shall  one  cooling  drop 

To  quench  their  burning  tongues  be  given ; 
But  I  will  praise  thee  here,  and  hope 

Thus  to  employ  my  tongue  in  heaven, 

My  lieart  shall  be  in  pain  to  hear 
Wretches  affront  the  Lord  above  : 

'Tis  that  great  God  whose  power  I  fear, 
That  heavenly  Father  whom  I  love. 

If  my  companions  grow  profane, 

I'll  leave  thoir  friendship  when  I  hear 

Young  sinners  take  thy  Name  in  vain, 
And  learn  to  curse,  and  learn  to  swear. 


m^K 


AGAINST   IDLENESS   AND   MISCHIEF. 

How  dotli  the  little  busy  bee 
Improve  each  shining  hour, 

And  gather  honey  all  the  day 
From  every  opening  flower ! 


-^ 


\4   ,   ^^^ 


1*1  VISE    SONGS. 


How  skilfully  she  builds  her  cell  ! 

How  neat  she  spreads  tlie  wax  ! 
And  labours  hard  to  store  it  well 

AVith  the  sweet  food  she  makes. 

In  works  of  labour  or  of  skill 

T  would  be  busy  too  : 
F(jr  Satan  finds  some  mischief  still 

Vov  idle  hands  to  do. 

In  books,  or  work,  or  healthful  play 
Let  my  first  years  be  past, 

That  I  may  give  for  every  day 
Some  good  account  at  last. 


«S^| 


AG\I^ST    EVIL   COMrVXY 

;  Why  should  I  join  with  those  in  play 
I        In  whom  I've  no  delight; 
p  AVho  curse  and  sw^ear,  but  never  pray  ; 
'       Who  call  ill  names,  and  fioht? 


mm 


^ 


'  |)  I  hate  to  hear  a  wanton  song : 
Their  words  oftend  my  ears: 
'•^^V  -^V-^  '    I  should  not  dare  defile  my  touijue 
-^^-^     .^H       With  lan(?ua<]re  such  as  then-s. 


C7 


DIVINE   SONGS. 


Away  from  fools  I'll  turn  my  eyes, 

Nor  with  the  scoffers  go  : 
r  would  be  walking  with  tlie  wise, 

Tliat  wiser  I  may  grow. 

From  one  rude  boy,  that's  used  to  mock^ 

They  learn  the  wicked  jest : 
One  sickly  sheep  infects  the  flock, 

And  poisons  all  the  rest. 

jNly  God,  I  hate  to  walk  or  dwell 

With  sinful  children  here  : 
Then  let  me  not  be  sent  to  hell, 

Where  none  but  sinners  are. 


m 


mm  Km 


AGAINST   PEIDE   IN   CLOTHES. 

^^^^/fiM  Why  should  our  garments,  made  to  hide 
Our  parents'  shame,  provoke  our  pride  ? 
The  art  of   dress  did  ne'er  begin 
Till  Eve  our  mother  learnt  to  sin. 


nniSE  SONGS. 


When  first  she  put  the  covering  on, 
Her  robe  of  innocence  was  gone; 
And  yet  lier  cliildren  vainly  boast 
In  tlie  sad  marks  of  glory  lost. 

How  proud  we  are !  how  fond  to  shew 
Our  clothes,  and  call  them  rich  and  new, 
When  the  poor  sheep  and  silkworms  wor 
That  very  clothing  long  before  ! 

The  tulip  and  tlie  butterfly 

Appear  in  gayer  coats  tlian  T  : 

Let  me  be  dress'd  fine  as  I  wil 

Flies,  worms,  and  flowers  exceed  me  still. 


^'' 


PRir>E  ly  CLOTHES. 


Then  will  1  set  my  heart  to  lind 
Inward  adornin<^rs  of  the  mind  : 
Knowledge  and  virtue,  truth  and  grace, 
These  are  the  robes  of  richest  dress. 

No  more  shall  worms  with  me  compare,     ^/ 
This  is  the  raiment  angels  wear :  I    "^ 

The  Son  of  God,  when  here  below, 
Put  on  this  blest  apparel  too. 

It  never  fades,  it  ne'er  grows  old, 

Xor  fears  the  rain,  nor  moth,  nor  mould; 

It  takes  no  spot,  but  still  refines ; 

The  more  'tis  worn,  tlie  more  it  shines. 


DIVINE  SONGS. 


In  this  on  earth  would  1  api)ear, 
Then  go  to  heaven,  and  wear  it  there 
God  will  approve  it  in  his  sight  ; 
'Tis  his  own  \vork,  and  his  delight. 


JiiiMiii. 


OBEDIENCE   TO    TARENTS. 

Let  children  that  would  fear  the  Lord 
Hear  what  tlieir  teachers  say  ; 

With  reverence  meet  their  parents'  word, 
And  ^^ith  delight  obey. 


DIVINE  SONGS. 


Have  you  not  heard  what  dreadful  phigues 

Are  tlireaten'd  by  the  Lord, 
To  him  that  Lreaks  his  fathers  hiw, 

Or  mocks  his  mother's  word  ? 

What  heavy  guilt  upon  him  lies  !  , 

How  cursed  is  his  name  ! 
The  ravens  shall  pick  out  his  eyes, 

And  eagles  eat  the  same. 

But  those  who  worship  God,  and  give 

Their  parents  honour  due, 
Here  on  this  earth  they  long  shall  live, 

And  live  liereafter,  too. 


feM^i^ 


V  ^i-^'/ 


\f^ 


THE   child's   complaint. 

:^     Why  should  1  love  my  sports  so  Avell, 
^       So  constant  at  my  play, 
And  lose  the  thonghts  of  heaven  and  hell. 
And  then  forget  to  pray? 
75 


DIVINE  SONGS. 


AVhat  do  I  read  my  Bible  for, 
But,  Lord,  to  learn  thy  will? 

And  shall  I  daily  know  thee  more, 
And  less  obey  thee  still? 

How  senseless  is  my  heart,  and  wild 
How  vain  are  all  my  thoughts ! 

Pity  the  weakness  of  a  child, 
And  pardon  all  my  faults. 

]\Iake  me  thy  heavenly  voice  to  hear, 
And  let  me  love  to  pray  ; 

Since  God  will  lend  a  gracious  ear 
To  what  a  child  can  say. 


^u  K  ^W' 


A  MOEXIXG   SONG. 


My  God,  wlio  makes  the  sun  to  know 

His  proper  liour  to  rise ; 
And,  to  give  light  to  all  below, 

Doth  send  him  round  the  skies: 


77 


DIVINE  SONGS. 


When  from  the  chambers  of  the  east 

His  morning  race  begins, 
He  never  tires,  nor  stops  to  rest, 

But  round  the  world  he  shines. 

So,  like  the  sun,  would  I  fulfil 

The  business  of  the  day ; 
Begin  my  work  betimes,  and  still 

]\Iarch  on  my  heavenly  way. 

Give  me,  O  Lord,  thy  early  grace, 

Nor  let  my  soul  complain 
Tliat  the  young  morning  of  my  days 

Has  all  been  spent  in  vain ! 


AN  EVENING   SONG. 

And  now  another  day  is  gone, 
I'll  sing  my  Makers  praise! 

My  comforts  every  hour  make  known 
His  providence  and  grace. 


79 


DIVINE  SONGS. 


But  how  my  childhood  runs  to  waste 
My  sins  how  great  their  sum  ! 

Lord,  give  me  pardon  for  the  past. 
And  strength  for  days  to  come. 

I  hay  my  body  down  to  sleep, 

Let  angels  guard  my  head ; 
And,  through  the  hours  of  darkness,  keep 

Their  watch  around  my  bed. 

With  cheerful  heart  I  close  mine  eyes. 

Since  thou  wilt  not  remove  ; 
And  in  the  morning  let  me  rise 

Rejoicing  in  thy  love. 


FOR   THE   LOEDS-D.\Y   MORNING. 

This  is  the  day  when  Christ  arose 

So  early  from  the  dead  : 
Why  should  I  keep  my  eyelids  close, 

And  waste  my  hours  in  bed? 

81 


DIVINE   SONGS. 


This  is  the  clay  when  Jesus  broke 
The  powers  of  death  and  hell; 

And  shall  1  still  wear  Satan's  yoke, 
And  love  my  sins  so  well  ? 

To-day,  with  pleasure,  Christians  meet. 
To  pray,  and  hear  thy  AVord ; 

And  I  would  go  with  cheerful  feet 
To  learn  thy  will,  0  Lord! 

I'll  leave  my  sport,  to  read  and  pray, 
And  so  prepare  for  heaven : 

0  may  I  love  this  blessed  day 
The  best  of  all  the  seven  ! 


FOE    THE   LORDS-DAY   EVENING. 


LOED,  how  delightful  'tis  to  see 

A  whole  assembly  worship  thee  ! 

At  once  they  sing,  at  once  they  pray  ; 

They  hear  of  heaven,  and  learn  the  way. 


83 


DIVINE  SONGS. 


I  have  been  there,  and  still  would  go 
'Tis  like  a  little  heaven  below  ! 
Not  all  my  pleasure  and  my  play 
Should  tempt  me  to  foi-get  this  da}^ 

0  write  upon  my  memoiy,  Lord, 
The  text  and  doctrines  of  thy  Word ; 
That  I  may  break  thy  laws  no  more. 
But  love  thee  better  than  before  ! 

With  thoughts  of   Christ  and  things  divine 
Fill  up  this  foolish  heart  of  mine : 
That,  hoping  pardon  through  his  blood, 

1  may  lie  down,  and  wake  with  God. 


THE   TEN   COMMANDMENTS. 


1.  Thou  slialt  have  no  more  Gods  but  me. 

2.  Before  no  idol  bow  thy  knee. 

3.  Take  not  the  Name  of  God  in  vain  : 

4.  'Not  dare  the  Sabbath-day  profane. 

5.  Give  both  thy  parents  honour  due. 
G.  Take  heed  that  thou  no  murder  do. 

7.  Abstain  from  words  and  deeds  unclean  : 

8.  ISTor  steal,  though  thou  aft  poor  and  mean 

9.  Nor  make  a  wilful  lie,  nor  love  it. 

10.  What  is  thy  neighbour's  dare  not  covet. 
85 


THE   SU-Af   OF  THE   COMMANDMENTS. 

'   ITH  all  thy  soul  love  God  above  ; 
Vnd  as  thyself  thy  neighbour  love. 


n 


M'V 


DUTV  TO  GOD  AND  OUR  NEIGHBOUR. 

OVE  God  with  all  your  soul  and  strength, 

With  all  your  heart  and  mind  ; 
And  love  your  neighbour  as  yourself: 
->c-  Be  faithful,  just,  and  kind. 

Deal  with  another  as  you'd  have 

Another  deal  with  you  : 
Wliat  you're  unwilling  to  receive, 

Be  sure  you  never  do. 


86 


OUR  SAVIOUR  S  GOLDEX  RULE. 


E  you  to  others  kind  and  true, 
As  you'd  have  others  be  to  you  ; 
w      vl-   %s^       ^iid  neither  do  nor  say  to  men 


Whate'er  you  vould  not  take  again. 


THE    HOSANXA  ;    OR    SALVATION   ASCRIBED   TO 
CHRIST. 


OSANNA  to  king  David's  Son, 
^Yho  reigns  on  a  superior  throne  ! 
We  bless  the  Prince  of  heavenly  birth, 
VTko  brinofs  salvation  down  to  earth. 

Let  every  nation,  every  age, 
In  this  delightful  work  engage ; 
Old  men  and  babes  in  Sion  sing 
The  growing  glories  of  her  King  ! 


87 


IIoSANNA  to  the  Prince  of  Grace; 

Sion,  behold  thy  King  ! 
Proclaim  the  Son  of  David's  race, 

And  teach  the  babes  to  sing. 

Hosanna  to  tlie  eternal  Word, 
AVho  iVoni  llie  Father  came; 

Ascribe  salvation  to  tlie  Lord, 
Witli  blessings  on  his  Name  ! 


88 


j       AVI  10  made  our  peace  with  Leaven. 
89 


0  God  tlie  Father,  God  the  Son, 
And  God  tlie  Spirit,  Tliree  in  One, 
l>e  hononr,  praise,  and  glory  given, 
V))'  all  on  eiirth,  and  all  in  heavcMi. 


OW  let  the  Father,  and  the  Son, 

And  S])ii'it  lie  adored, 
Whei'c  tlu-re  are  works  to  make  him  known. 

Or  saints  to  love  the  Lord. 


'■lllir 


fiVE  to  the  Father  praise, 
Give  glory  to  the  Son, 
And  to  the  Spirit  of  his  Grace 
Be  equal  honour  done. 


91 


MOHAL    HOHGS. 


A   SLIGHT    SPECIMEN; 

Such  as  I  wish  some  happy  and  condescending  genius 
would  undertake  for  the  use  of  children,  and  perform 
much  better. 

The  sense  and  subjects  might  be  borrowed  plentifully 
from  the  Proverbs  of  Solomon,  from  all  the  common  appear- 
ances of  nature,  from  all  the  occuirences  of  civil  life,  both 
in  city  and  country  (which  would  also  afford  matter  for 
other  divine  songs).  Here  the  language  and  measures 
should  be  easy,  and  flowing  with  cheerfulness,  with  or  Avith- 
out  the  solemnities  of  religion,  or  the  sacred  names  of  God 
and  holy  things :  that  children  might  find  delight  and 
profit  together. 

This  would  be  one  effectual  way  to  deliver  them  from 
those  idle,  wanton,  or  profane  songs,  which  give  so  early 
an  ill  taint  to  the  fancy  and  memory  ;  and  become  the  seeds 
of  future  vices. 


THE     S  L  U  a  G  A  K  D. 

'Tis  the  voice  of  tlie  Sluggard :  I  heard  him  complain, 
'  You  have  waked  me  too  soon  !  I  must  slumber  again  ! ' 
As  the  door  on  its  hinges,  so  he  on  his  bed 
Turns  his  sides,  and  his  shoulders,  and  his  heavy  head. 

'  A  little  more  sleep,  and  a  little  more  slumber  ! ' 
Thus  he  ^^'astes  half  his  days  and  his  hours  without  number; 
And  when  he  gets  up  he  sits  folding  his  hands. 
Or  walks  about  sauntering,  or  trifling  he  stands. 


95 


MORAL   SOXGS 


I  pass'd  by  his  garden,  and  saw  the  wild  brier, 
The  thorn,  and  the  thistle  grow  broader  and  higher  : 
Tlie  clothes  that  hang  on  him  are  turning  to  rags ; 
And  his  money  still  wastes,  till  he  starves  or  he  be^^s. 

I  made  him  a  visit,  still  hoping  to  find 
He  had  took  better  care  for  improving  his  mind: 
He  told  me  his  dreams,  talk'd  of  eating  and  drinking; 
But  he  scarce  reads  his  Bible,  and  never  loves  thiiikin<^ 

Said  I  then  to  my  heart,  '  Here's  a  lesson  for  me  ! 
That  man's  but  a  picture  of  what  I  miojit  be  • 
But  thanks  to  my  friends  for  their  care  in  my  breeding, 
Who  have  taught   me  by  times   to   love  working  and 
readinLi" !" 


';Ai-- 


Ir^W':'^ 


T'l 


''•'ik-^ 


.l> 


Abkoad  in  the  meadows,  to  see  the  young  lambs 
Eun  sporting  about  by  the  side  of  their  dams, 

With  fleeces  so  clean  and  so  white; 
Or  a  nest  of  young  doves  in  a  large  open  cage, 
^Yhen  they  play  all  in  love,  without  anger  or  rage, 

How  much  may  we  learn  from  the  sight 

97  N 


MORAL   SONGS. 


If  we  had  been  ducks,  we  might  dabble  in  mud ; 
Or  dogs,  we  might  pLay  till  it  ended  in  blood: 

So  foul  and  so  fierce  are  their  natures  ; 
But  Thomas  and  AVilliam,  and  such  pretty  names. 
Should  be  cleanly  and  harmless  as  doves  or  as  lambs, 

Those  lovely  sweet  innocent  creatures. 

!N'ot  a  thing  that  we  do,  nor  a  word  that  we  say, 
Should  injure  another  in  jesting  or  play ; 

For  he's  still  in  earnest  that's  hurt : 
How  rude  are  the  boys  that  throw  pebbles  and  mire  ; 
There's  none  but  a  madman  will  fling  abont  fire. 

And  tell  you,    "'Tis  all  but  in  sport." 


--  THE   ROSE. 

How  fair  is  the  Eose  !  what  a  beautiful 
flower ! 

The  glory  of  April  and  May  : 
But  the  leaves  are  beginning  to  fade  in  an   hour, 
And  they  wither  and  die  in  a  day. 
99 


MORAL  SONGS. 


Yet  the  I\ose  lias  one  powerful  virtue  to  boast, 

Above  all  the  Iknvers  of  the  field ! 
"When  its  leaves  are  all  dead  and  fine  colours  are  lost, 

Still  how  SAveet  a  perfume  it  Avill  yield ! 

So  frail  is  the  youth  and  the  beauty  of  man, 
Though  they  bloom  and  look  gay  like  the  Eose ; 

But  all  our  fond  care  to  preserve  them  is  vain, 
Time  kills  them  as  fast  as  he  goes. 

Then  I'll  not  be  proud  of  my  youth  and  my  beauty, 

Since  both  of  them  wither  and  fade ; 
But  gain  a  good  name  by  well  doing  my  duty  : 

This  will  scent  like  a  Rose  when  I'm  dead. 


Why  should  I  deprive  my  neighbour 
Of  his  goods  against  his  will? 

Hands  were  made  for  honest  labour, 
Not  to  plunder,  or  to  steal. 

'Tis  a  foolish  self-deceiving 

By  such  tricks  to  hope  for  gain  : 

All  that's  ever  got  by  thieving 
Turns  to  sorrow,  shame,  and  pain. 

101 


MORAL  SONGS. 


Have  not  Eve  and  Adam  tauglit  us 
Their  sad  profit  to  compute, 

To  what  dismal  state  they  brought  us 
AVhen  they  stole  forbidden  fruit? 

Oft  we  see  a  young  beginner 
Practise  little  pilfering  ways, 

Till  grown  up  a  harden'd  sinner, 
Then  the  gallows  ends  his  days. 

Theft  will  not  be  always  hidden, 
Though  we  fancy  none  can  spy: 

When  we  take  a  thing  forbidden, 
God  beholds  it  with  his  eye. 

Guard  my  heart,  0  God  of  heaven, 
Lest  I  covet  what's  not  mine; 

Lest  I  steal  what  is  not  given, 

Guard  my  heart  and  hands  from  sin. 


mi 


THE   ANT,    OR   EMMET. 

These  Emmets,  how  little  they  are  in  our  eyes ! 
We  tread  them  to  dust,  and  a  troop  of  them  dies. 

Without  our  regard  or  concern : 
Yet,  as  wise  as  we  are,  if  we  w^ent  to  their  school, 
There's  many  a  sluggard  and  many  a  fool 

Some  lessons  of  wisdom  might  learn. 

They  w^ear  not  their  time  out  in  sleeping  or  play. 
But  gather  up  corn  in  a  sunshiny  day. 

And  for  winter  they  lay  up  their  stores : 
They  manage  their  work  in  such  regular  forms, 
One  would   think   they  foresaw  all   the  frosts   and 
the  storms. 

And  so  brought  their  food  withindoors. 


^"^  ^ 


103 


MORAL  SONGS. 


Lut  1  have  less  sense  than  a  poor  creeping  Ant, 
If  I  take  not  due  care  for  the  things  I  shall  want, 

Xor  provide  against  dangers  in  time ; 
AVhen  death  or  old  age  shall  once  stare  in  my  face, 
AVhat  a  wretch  shall  I  be  in  the  end  of  my  days. 

If  I  trifle  away  all  their  prime ! 

Xow,  now,  while  my  strength  and  my  youth  are  in  bloom, 
Let  me  think  what  shall  serve  me  when  sickness  shall  come. 

And  pray  that  my  sins  be  forgiven. 
Let  me  read  in  good  Ijooks,  and  believe,  and  ol)ey ; 
That,  when  death  turns  me  out  of  this  cottage  of  clay, 

1  may  dwell  in  a  palace  in  heaven. 


GOOD     RESOLUTIONS. 

Though  I'm  now  in  younger  days, 
Nor  can  tell  what  shall  befall  me, 

I'll  prepare  for  every  place 

Where  my  growing  age  shall  call  me. 

Should  I  e'er  be  rich  or  great, 
Others  shall  partake  my  goodness 

I'll  supply  the  poor  with  meat, 
Never  shewing  scorn  or  rudeness. 
105 


MORAL  SONGS. 


-at 

AVliere  I  see  the  blind  or  lame. 

Deaf  or  dumb,  I'll  kindly  treat  them 

T  deserve  to  feel  the  same, 

Tf  I  mock,  or  hurt,  or  cheat  them. 

If   I  meet  with  railing  tongues, 
Wliy  should  I  return  them  railing, 
/,    Since  T  best  revenge  my  wrongs 
By  my  pntience  never  failing? 

When  1  hear  them  telling  lies, 
Talking  foolish,  cursing,  swearing, 

First  I'll  try  to  make  them  wise, 
Or  I'll  soon  i^o  out  of  hearing. 


\ni\ 


rrOOl)  RESOLUTIONS. 


^m 


What  though  I   he  low  or  iiieciii, 
I'll  engage  the  rich  to  love  me, 

While  I'm  modest,  neat,  and  clean. 
And  submit  when  they  reprove  me. 

If  I  should  be  poor  and  sick, 
I  shall  meet,  I  hope,  with  pity  ; 

Since  I  love  to  help  the  weak, 

Thdngh  they're  neither  fair  nor  witt^ 


107 


MORAL  SONGS. 


I'll  not  willingly  oli'end, 

Nor  be  easily  offended: 
AVhat's  amiss  I'll  strive  to  mend, 

And  endure  what  can't  be  mended. 

]\Iay  I  be  so  watchful  still 

O'er  my  humours  and  my  passion, 
As  to  speak  and  do  no  ill, 

Though  it  should  be  all  the  fashion. 

Wicked  fashions  lead  to  hell ; 

Ne'er  may  I  be  found  complying ; 
But  in  life  behave  so  well, 

Not  to  be  afraid  of   dying. 


How  fine  has  the  day  been !  how  bright  was  the  sun 
How  lovely  and  joyful  the  course  that  he  run  ; 
Though  he  rose  in  a  mist  when  his  race  he  begun, 

And  there  follow'd  some  droppings  of  rain  : 
But  now  the  fair  traveller's  come  to  the  west, 
His  rays  are  all  gold,  and  his  beauties  are  best; 
He  paints  the  skies  gay  as  he  sinks  to  his  rest, 

And  foretells  a  bright  risino-  aaain. 
109 


MORAL  S(fXGS. 


Just  such  is  llic  Cliristiaii.  His  cuuisc  lie  begins 
Like  the  suu  in  a  mist,  while  he  mourns  for  his  sins, 
And  melts  into  tears  !  then  he  breaks  out  and  shines. 

And  travels  his  heavenly  way  : 
But  when  he  comes  nearer  to  finish  his  race, 
Like  a  fine  setting  sun,  he  looks  richer  in  grace  ; 
And  gives  a  sure  hope,  at  the  end  of  his  days, 

Of  rising  in  brighter  array. 


^*Ml' 


Ylir.— CRADLE  HYMN. 


':  USH,  my  dear !     Lie  still,  and  slumber ! 
Holy  angels  guard  thy  bed  ! 
Heavenly  blessings,  without  number 
Gently  falling  on  thy  head. 


MORAL   SONGS. 


^-/ 


'^'^  'Ca"; 


L»^-^\ 


;.iA     ►'^leop,    my    babe!      thy    food    aiK 
I  raiment, 

House    and    liome,    tliy    friends 
provide  ; 
'  All  witliout  tliy  care  or  payment, 

All  thy  wants  are  well  supplied. 

How  much  better  thou'rt  attended 
f  Than  the  Son  of  (^od  could  be, 

AVhen  from  lieaven  lie  descended, 
And  became  a  child  like  thee  ! 

Soft  and  easy  is  thy  cradle: 

Coarse  and  hard  thy  Saviour  lay, 

\Mien  his  birthplace  was  a  stabl(\ 
And  his  softest  bed  was  hay. 


ii>'-  v 


112 


CRADLE  HYMX. 


-^ 


^% 


X 


d 


Blessed    Babe !    what   glorious 


features, — 
Spotless  fair,  divinely  bright ! 
Must   he   dwell  with  brutal  crea- 
tures ? 
How  could  angels  bear  the  sight? 

Was  there  nothing  but  a  manger 
Cursed  sinners  could  afford, 

To  receive  the  heavenly  stranger? 
Did  they  thus  affront  the  Lord  ? 

Soft,  nay  child  I  I  did  not  chide  thee, 
Though  my  song   might    sound 
too  hard  : 

'Tis  thy  mother  sits  beside  thee, 
And  her  arm  shall  be  thy  guard. 


J    ,,       ^ 


/- 


{ ^i 


113 


MORAL  SONGS. 


1^1 


W\      Yet  to  read  the  sliameful  story, 
|j^Y^      How  the  Jews  abused  their  King,         X^ 
'    How  they  served  the  Lord  of  Glory,       M/- 
Makes  me  angry  while  I  sing. 


See  the  kinder  shepherds  round  him, 
Telling  wonders  from  the  sky  1 

Where  they  sought  him,  there  they  found 
him, 
AYith  his  Virgin-mother  by. 


See  the  lovely  Babe  a-dressing: 
/       Lovely  infant,  how  he  smiled! 
'5       When  he  wept,  his  mother's  blessing 
Sooth'd  and  hush'd  the  holy  Cliild. 


t^' 


"/"* 


Ss.^ 


114 


CRADLE  HYMX, 


'\ 


•r^ 


C 


Lo,  he  slumbers  in  a  manger,  /f  'a 

Where  the  horned  oxen  fed ! —  /v  \ 

Peace,  my  darling,  here's  no  danger : 
There's  no  ox  a-near  tliy  bed. 

Twas  to  save  thee,  child,  from  dying. 
Save  my  dear  from  burning  flame, 

Bitter  groans  and  endless  crying, 
That  thy  blest  Eedeemer  came. 

^lay'st  thou  live  to  know  and  fear  him. 
Trust  and  love  him  all  thy  days, 

Then  go  dwell  for  ever  near  him : 
See  his  face,  and  sing  his  praise ! 


115 


MORAL  SONGS. 


I  could  give  thee  thousand  kisses  ! 

Hoping  what  I  most  desire, 
Not  a  mother's  fondest  wishes 

Can  to  greater  joys  aspire ! 


._/| 


d 


•  -  TSrTTiJf -r.-^Tr. ViT-' 


■v>.^.WU,^•!i^\•.o 


